Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for guests of all ages, ensuring everyone can partake in the festive cheer.
- Easy to Prepare: Requires simple ingredients and minimal preparation time.
- Visually Appealing: The combination of colorful fruits makes for a stunning presentation.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your preferred fruits and juices.
Ingredients
- 1 orange, sliced into thin rounds or wedges
- 1 apple, sliced into thin rounds or small cubes
- 1 pear, sliced thin or cut into small cubes
- ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 5 cups cranberry juice cocktail
- 2 cups orange juice (no pulp)
- 2-3 cups cran-apple sparkling cider or flavored sparkling water
- Fresh mint or rosemary for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and slice the orange, apple, and pear as directed.
- Combine Juices and Fruit: In a large clear pitcher, add the prepared fruit along with the cranberry and orange juices. Stir to mix well.
- Chill: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Sparkling Component: Just before serving, pour in the chilled cran-apple sparkling cider or flavored sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh mint or rosemary sprigs for a festive touch. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 10 cups of sangria, serving about 8-10 people.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: At least 1 hour
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Substitutions: Feel free to substitute or add other fruits such as fresh raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, limes, lemons, plums, or peaches to suit your taste preferences.
- Sparkling Options: For a less sweet sangria, opt for flavored sparkling water instead of sparkling cider.
- Herbal Garnishes: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique flavor twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover sangria in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Note: The longer the sangria sits, the sweeter it becomes as the fruit continues to infuse the juices.
- Reheating: This beverage is best enjoyed chilled and is not suitable for reheating.
FAQs
What is Non-Alcoholic Sangria?
Non-Alcoholic Sangria is a mocktail version of the traditional Spanish beverage, made by combining fruit juices, fresh fruits, and sparkling components to mimic the flavors of classic sangria without the alcohol.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit and juice mixture up to 5 hours in advance. Add the sparkling component just before serving to maintain its fizz.
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
You can use a variety of fruits such as berries, citrus slices, pineapple, or grapes. Choose fruits that are in season for the best flavor.
Is There a Low-Sugar Option?
To reduce the sugar content, use 100% fruit juices with no added sugar and opt for sparkling water instead of sweetened sparkling cider.
How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?
The sangria can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the fruit may become overly soft if left too long.
Can I Use Frozen Fruit?
Yes, frozen fruit can be used and can help keep the sangria cold. Keep in mind that frozen fruit may become mushy as it thaws.
What Can I Use Instead of Cran-Apple Sparkling Cider?
You can substitute with plain sparkling water, lemon-lime soda, or any flavored sparkling water of your choice.
How Do I Make It Less Sweet?
To make the sangria less sweet, use unsweetened juices and opt for sparkling water instead of sweetened sparkling cider.
Can I Add Spices?
Yes, adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves can impart a warm, spiced flavor to the sangria.
Is This Suitable for Kids?
Absolutely! This non-alcoholic sangria is a great option for children and adults alike, making it perfect for family gatherings.
Conclusion
Non-Alcoholic Christmas Sangria is a versatile and festive beverage that brings the flavors of the holiday season to your gatherings. Its combination of fresh fruits and juices makes it a refreshing and inclusive option that guests of all ages can enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or a family dinner, this mocktail is sure to be a hit.
Non-Alcoholic Christmas Sangria
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 cups (serves 8-10 people)
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Non-Alcoholic Christmas Sangria is a refreshing and festive holiday mocktail that combines fresh fruits, cranberry juice, and sparkling cider, perfect for all ages. With its vibrant colors and sweet-tart flavor profile, this drink is ideal for family gatherings and holiday parties. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, it’s the perfect non-alcoholic alternative to traditional sangria.
Ingredients
- 1 orange, sliced into thin rounds or wedges
- 1 apple, sliced into thin rounds or small cubes
- 1 pear, sliced thin or cut into small cubes
- ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 5 cups cranberry juice cocktail
- 2 cups orange juice (no pulp)
- 2–3 cups cran-apple sparkling cider or flavored sparkling water
- Fresh mint or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and slice the orange, apple, and pear as directed.
- Combine Juices and Fruit: In a large clear pitcher, add the prepared fruit along with the cranberry and orange juices. Stir to mix well.
- Chill: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Sparkling Component: Just before serving, pour in the chilled cran-apple sparkling cider or flavored sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh mint or rosemary sprigs for a festive touch. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Fruit Substitutions: Feel free to swap in other fruits like fresh raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, limes, lemons, plums, or peaches.
- Sparkling Options: Use flavored sparkling water instead of cider for a less sweet version.
- Herbal Garnishes: Basil or thyme can add a unique twist to the flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: At least 1 hour
- Category: Beverage, Mocktail, Christmas Drink
- Method: Stir, Chill
- Cuisine: American, Spanish (Non-Alcoholic Sangria)
